Insight Focus
PET businesses are adopting early sustainability reporting practices. Voluntary reporting builds transparency and prepares companies for upcoming rules like the EU’s CSRD. It also brings financial, commercial and reputational benefits.
PET Businesses Adopt Early Sustainability Reporting
If you’re involved in the PET industry—whether producing packaging or developing circular economy solutions—you’ve probably noticed that more and more businesses are publishing annual Sustainability Reports. Understanding the requirements of sustainability reporting is no easy feat. From being aware of the necessary actions to implementing them and collecting the necessary data, it’s a task that’s far more demanding than it may initially seem.
Interestingly, many industry players are not yet legally required to do so, depending on their size, location and specific activities. So why are they doing it? In an industry that constantly operates under a spotlight, transparency matters. PET converters and related businesses work with materials that are under continuous scrutiny from regulators, customers and environmental advocates alike.
Publishing an annual Sustainability Report shows that a company is taking responsibility for its environmental impact—not just when it’s required to, but because it chooses to. This visible, measurable document demonstrates a proactive commitment to reducing emissions, supporting circularity and improving resource efficiency.
Source: KPMG
In some regions, sustainability reporting will soon become mandatory for larger businesses. Europe’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) is a prime example, with phased implementation expected over the coming years. But rather than waiting until the last minute, forward-thinking companies are starting early. Why? Because they understand that preparing for new reporting requirements takes time, and early action means fewer surprises down the road.
Reporting Drives Financial and Commercial Benefits
Compliance isn’t the only driver, though. Sustainability Reports also offer tangible business benefits. Financial institutions increasingly ask for this kind of data before offering loans, insurance or investments.
In fact, environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance is rapidly becoming part of everyday risk assessments. Companies that can clearly demonstrate how they’re reducing waste, cutting emissions, or improving recycling processes often gain better access to ‘green’ loans and benefit from lower borrowing costs.
These financial benefits also translate into commercial advantages, as brands and manufacturers increasingly choose suppliers based on sustainability data. If you’re supplying PET products to the food, beverage or healthcare markets, being able to point to an annual Sustainability Report can be a gateway decision.
Publishing your sustainability progress also builds trust with employees and local communities, providing an indirect but important benefit. It sends a strong signal that your company takes its responsibilities seriously — crucial for attracting environmentally conscious talent.
So even if your business isn’t yet required to publish a Sustainability Report, maybe it should. The benefits—for both your company and the environment—are clear.
